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Easter Monday • Spring & Community

Wet Monday (Śmigus-dyngus)

An ancient spring tradition, famous across Poland and in cities like Lviv, where people engage in massive, city-wide water fights in the streets. Today, we explore the symbolism of water as a source of purification and why humans love organised chaos as a way to bond with their neighbours.

Water splashing in a city fountain, representing Wet Monday celebrations

Speaking Discussion

  • Would you find it incredibly fun or deeply annoying to be suddenly soaked with water on your way to the shop?
  • Why is water such an important symbol for new beginnings and cleaning the past in so many different cultures?
  • Do you think public street parties and massive water fights are a great way for a city to bond and improve social cohesion?
  • If you were visiting Lviv or Warsaw during Wet Monday, what strategy would you use to stay dry? Or would you join in?
  • What is the best childhood memory you have of playing with water or having a water fight during the summer?
  • Some people argue that traditions like this are primitive or messy. Do you agree, or are they essential for cultural identity?
  • If you had to invent a new tradition to celebrate the arrival of spring, what would it involve?

Activity 1: The strategy Meeting

The Task: You are the General of a local water-fight team. Plan your attack on the town square. Where will you hide? What weapons (buckets, balloons, hose) will you use? How will you keep your phone dry?

from the sidebar.

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences

Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.

  • "The best way to cool down is..."
  • "In my city, the streets are..."
  • "I think water is the most..."